Lawrence F. Chapman, Sr., 90, devoted husband, father, grandfather, educator, golfer, and friend departed this life on February 12, 2024, surrounded by his wife and children. He was the son of the late Sarah MaGee and Louie Chapman, Sr.
A native of Suffolk, VA, Lawrence was educated in the Norfolk Public School System and a graduate of Booker T. Washington High School Class of 1952. He continued his studies at the Norfolk Division of Virginia State College which is now known as Norfolk State University. Lawrence furthered his education at the Army’s Nike Guided Missile Maintenance Detachment where he was an honor graduate. He began his civilian life as an honor graduate in the Electronic Apprentice School at the Naval Air Rework Facility. In 1993, after 39 years of service, he retired from the Naval Air Rework Facility as an Aircraft Production Superintendent, Avionics Division Director.
Lawrence was one who understood the importance of knowledge. His willingness to share his knowledge and skills as a former electronics instructor at Norfolk State University empowered students to take their knowledge and skills from the classroom to a career.
Lawrence was raised in First Baptist Church Bute Street and in his adult years was an active member at Mount Olive Baptist Church. At Mount Olive, he served as the Chairman of the Trustee Ministry, member of E.T. Myers Missionary Ministry, the Golden Years Ministry, and Food Pantry Ministry.
Lawrence had the unique ability to connect with a wide range of individuals. He loved to laugh and had an uncanny sense of humor. In his passing, a fond memory was shared by a niece stating, “…his sense of humor, his “LOGICAL” way of putting everything in perspective, his smile, his laughter, the way he ALWAYS spoke so LOVINGLY about Aunt Alvah and their LIFELONG LOVE AFFAIR. He was a GIANT of a man with just the right amount of GENUINE GENTLENESS.”
Perhaps to the world, Lawrence was an unknown gourmet cook. But to his family and friends, he was known as a world-renowned chef and his skillet lasagna was a family favorite. He was also fondly known as the “TV Repairman” because of his ability to revive TVs, stereos, and many other electronic devices for families throughout Hampton Roads. Lawrence was an avid golfer and took advantage of any day the temperature was above 60 degrees. He held bragging rights with two “Hole-in-one” but despite attempts, he never was able to add a THIRD to his collection. Most of all, he enjoyed fun-filled activities with his wife of 68 years and family.
Left to cherish his memory: his beloved wife, Alvah F. Chapman of Norfolk; two sons, Lawrence F. Chapman, Jr. (Vanessa) and A. Keith Chapman, Sr. (Davida) both of Chesapeake, VA; one daughter, Julie C. Holmes (Jerry) of Suffolk , VA; seven grandchildren, J. Shajuan Ford, Larry Jovan Chapman, Kelsey Holmes, A. Keith Chapman, Jr., Jordan Holmes, Corey Chapman, and Kennedy Chapman; three great-grandchildren, Kevin Deon Chapman, Jr., Trenton Pittman and Avery K. Chapman.
He was predeceased by Sarah L. MaGee (mother); Louie Chapman, Sr. (father); Alfred B. MaGee (stepfather); Louie Chapman (brother); Joyce Riley (sister); and Kevin Deon Chapman, Sr. (grandson).
Condolences(15)-
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owen durham jr says
February 15, 2024 at 6:55 pmMAY GOD BLESS THE CHAPMAN FAMILY from your life time friend.*OD* Owen Durham.
Shorty says
February 16, 2024 at 9:14 pmTo my family,
Although am also grieving, I know your grief is much deeper than I can even imagine. May God wrap you all in His Loving Arms and give you Comfort and Peace during these difficult days. My love and prayers are with you all.
To Pop,
From Salt- to- Chapter 7, you were a constant support!
Rest Now in God Pop!
Valerie Hunter says
February 17, 2024 at 12:27 amAlvah and family, brother Chapman fought a great fight now take your seat and rest God bless you all sis Valerie Hunter
Gloria Clarke says
February 19, 2024 at 12:51 pmTo Alvah and Family. May you find peace and comfort during this time. May God bless you and keep you in his care.
Sincerely,
Gloria Clarke and Family.
Bill and Sherrese says
February 19, 2024 at 6:06 pmTo Aunt Alva and our cousins! Uncle Lawrence was quite a man with such a humorous laugh and a BIG HEART!💗 We know that he has received his crown in glory and is present with our Lord! Our prayers and love are with you all!
Larry, Sherrese, Bill, Phyllis and family!🙏🏽
Randolph Chapman says
February 19, 2024 at 11:06 pmTo Alvah and the entire Chapman family, we are so sorry for your loss, our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Sending our love and deepest sympathy to you and your family. We’re praying for peace, comfort, courage, and lots of love at this time of sorrow.
God Bless!
Randolph Chapman
Adalene V. (Chapman) Boykin
Pamela Dean Niell says
February 20, 2024 at 5:47 pmMy condolences to the family. He will be missed. The family is in my prayers.
Stephanie K. Dean says
February 20, 2024 at 5:54 pmMy deepest condolences to Mr Lawrence F. Chapman family, friends and associates. Memories back when I was 7 years old, a real kind and loving human being. Our last converse to “ Until We Meet Again”. Prayers towards Mrs Chapman, Julie, Lawrence and
Keith descendants. Blessings❣️
Beverly Lovett Johnson says
February 21, 2024 at 7:40 amBeverly Johnson (Dean)
A great soul serves everyone all the time.
A great soul never dies.
It brings us together again and again…..
Maya Angelou
Beverly Dean Johnson says
February 21, 2024 at 7:41 amBeverly Johnson (Dean)
A great soul serves everyone all the time.
A great soul never dies.
It brings us together again and again…..
Maya Angelou
Beverly Dean Johnson says
February 21, 2024 at 7:42 amBeverly Johnson (Dean)
February 21,2024
A great soul serves everyone all the time.
A great soul never dies.
It brings us together again and again…..
Maya Angelou
Beverly Dean Johnson says
February 21, 2024 at 7:43 amBeverly Johnson (Dean)
February 21, 2024
A great soul serves everyone all the time.
A great soul never dies.
It brings us together again and again…..
Maya Angelou
Brian Thomas says
February 24, 2024 at 3:10 amFirst let me offer my heart felt condolences to Ms. Chapman, Lawrence, Keith, and Julie and all your family members. My memories of Mr. Chapman growing up are of him being a loving father who always took very good care of his family. Secondly what a wonderful blessing from Our Father for all of you to have him and for him to have you for so many years (90). My wife and I are sending prayers of peace and healing to you all. Your old neighbor and friend. Brian
Paula Peebles Bomds says
February 24, 2024 at 3:11 pmOur sincere condolences for this tremendous loss. Sending love and prayers to the entire Chapman Family.
The Peebles Family
Paula, Raki (Wm. III), Todd and Barry
Keith J Chapman Sr. says
March 31, 2024 at 5:16 pmWe are truly sorry to hear of the passing of a family Patriarch! To all of the Chapmans’ from all of the other Chapmans’, we wish you nothing but Peace!
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